Page 30 of Flawless Lyric

12

MICAH

Since I fulfilledall of my promises after dropping by Lyric’s house a few nights ago, it’s been balls to the wall. Now I have a little window of time, so I’m heading to my parents’ house to tell them that Lyric and I are together. My siblings promised they wouldn’t utter a word since I couldn’t make it there the other day. They best have kept their word or they’re not getting any Christmas presents this year. That might not sound like a big deal to you guys, but I’m a very generous gift giver. Just wait and see.

Dad’s outside mowing the front lawn when I pull in the driveway. We’ve all offered to mow it for him, but he insists on doing it himself. Claiming he’s just driving the damn thing while the mower does all the work. Like with Mom, I’ve learned a long time ago not to argue with him. I’ll never win.

With a wave, I walk inside the house and head straight for the kitchen. I know without a doubt that’s where I’ll find Mom. Bingo. She’s pulling something out of the oven that smells delicious, and I sure hope she sends me home with leftovers. I don’t say a word until she sets it on the trivet.

“What you cooking? It smells yummy.” Swooping her off her feet, I spin her around a few times. Hey, it doesn’t hurt to suck up to your mom at any age.

“Micah, put me down.” Planting a wet one on her cheek, I do what I’m told.

“Seriously, Mom. You love cooking so much, why open an agency and not a restaurant?” It’s a legit question I’ve wanted to ask a million times.

“There’s a difference between cooking for my family and trying to please hundreds of hungry customers. You kids had to eat my food or you’d starve. Customers can choose from tons of places. From fast food to fine cuisine and even delivery. How could I possibly compete with that? Nope. Not to mention the long hours and having to work holidays. With the agency, I simply show up and the houses sell themselves.”

“I never thought of it quite like that, but it sure makes sense. Lyric runs the office, and she’s there if a client stops by while you’re on the road working behind the scenes.” Here’s my opening, but I was hoping to talk to both of them at the same time.

“Lyric’s been a godsend. I’m so glad I snatched her up before someone else had the chance. I don’t know what I’d do without her. Not only is she a wonderful asset to the company but she’s become a fabulous friend as well.” Now I’m apprehensive. What happens if she is upset about our relationship?

Lyric will blame me. It’s inevitable.

What if Beauty’s right and I destroy everything?

What if I’m right and they welcome her into the family?

Chickening out, I change the subject. I convince myself that I’ll wait until Dad finishes the lawn so I can come clean with both of them.

“So, is that lunch cooling on the counter? Smells wonderful.” Hey, I never said I was brave, just a rockstar.

“Sorry, it’s for a potluck dinner we’re going to later tonight. It’s Fred’s birthday and we’re all bringing over a dish. You want to come along?” The Tuckers have been our neighbors for as far back as I can remember. Nice folks but I don’t want to hang out with them since we have nothing in common. They love all things country.

The minute the mower stops, I’ve run out of time. No more stalling. I know Dad will stop in to grab a beer, sit for a few, and then go back out to mow the backyard. He’s followed the same pattern for years and he’s not about to change now. Unless my news is so upsetting that he won’t be able to finish the lawn today.

Speak of the devil, Dad’s head pops in the kitchen. “Micah, grab us a few beers. It’s a hot one out there today. I should be swimming instead of mowing the lawn.”

Opening the fridge, I call over my shoulder, “You drink your beer, Dad, and I’ll finish the lawn.”

“Nonsense. I’ve been doing this since before you were born. I just need something cold to drink.” Handing him the beer, I pop mine open. Needing all the liquid courage I can find.

Well, it’s now or never…

“Other than wanting to stop by for a visit, I had an ulterior motive for coming here today.” I fiddle with my bottle cap, too afraid to proceed.

“What’s on your mind, son?” There’s a twinkle in his eye, and if I’m not mistaken, that knowing smile. Oh, I’m going to kill my siblings, but this might work in my favor.

“You’ve always told us kids that when you know you know.” I purposefully wait to see what happens and they don’t disappoint.

In unison. “The heart wants what the heart wants.” They give each other that knowing look.

Mom’s beaming from ear to ear and so is Dad, but I truly think he already knows. “Have you met someone, Micah?” Oh, I sure did, Mom, and she’s a Beauty.

“I did. Not only is she beautiful, but she’s selfless, kind, caring, and loves with her whole heart. She’s the bravest woman I’ve ever met and has the patience to match. I know you’re going to love her as much as I do.” Yeah, I saidthatword because ‘like’ just doesn’t cut it where Lyric is concerned.

Mom wraps her arms around my shoulders and kisses my cheek. “When can we meet her?”

Glancing at my dad for help, he nods. Giving me the courage to continue. I knew it!

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